Traditional Chicken Soup

Few dishes bring as much comfort and warmth as a bowl of homemade chicken soup. Known for its nourishing properties, this classic recipe has been a go-to remedy for colds, chilly days, and soul-soothing meals for generations. Slow-cooked with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this soup is rich in flavor yet simple to prepare. Whether served as a light meal or alongside fresh bread, this timeless dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Classic Homemade Chicken Soup

Warm, comforting, and nourishing, Chicken Soup is the ultimate feel-good meal. Whether you're battling a cold or just craving a hearty, homemade dish, this recipe delivers a rich, flavorful broth with tender chicken, vegetables, and herbs. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a timeless favorite that fills your home with warmth. Serve it with fresh bread or crackers for the perfect cozy meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Ashkenazi Jewish

Servings 6

Calories 180 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Broth:

• 1 whole chicken about 3-4 lbs, cut into pieces
• 10 cups water
• 1 onion quartered
• 3 garlic cloves smashed
• 2 carrots chopped
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a few sprigs of fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For the Soup:

• 2 carrots sliced
• 2 celery stalks sliced
• 1 cup egg noodles optional
• 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, combine the chicken, water, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaf, salt, pepper, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  
• Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming off any foam that rises to the top.
  
• Strain the Broth: Remove the chicken and strain the broth to discard solids. Return the broth to the pot.
  
• Shred the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces, discarding bones and skin.
• Add Fresh Vegetables: Add sliced carrots and celery to the broth. Simmer for another 15 minutes until tender.
• Add Noodles (Optional): If using noodles, add them and cook according to package instructions.
• Return the Chicken: Stir in the shredded chicken, season with additional salt and pepper if needed, and simmer for another 5 minutes.
• Garnish & Serve: Stir in fresh parsley, then serve hot with your favorite bread or crackers.
  

Notes

For a richer broth, add a chicken bouillon cube or use homemade stock instead of water.
You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Keyword chicken soup, soup